GRAHAM Construction to deliver new commercial hub for U+I in Brighton

Specialist regeneration and property developer, U+I has appointed GRAHAM Construction to deliver a new commercial hub for start-up and SME businesses as part of its Preston Barracks redevelopment in Brighton.

Construction of the 50,000 sq ft building will mark the first phase of works on the overall Preston Barracks project, a significant mixed-use regeneration scheme that will radically transform this part of Brighton. The £200m project has been designed by award-winning architects, Studio Egret and tp bennett, and will include 369 new homes, 534 student beds, shops, cafes and workshops.

The wider masterplan which encompasses two of the University of Brighton sites will provide further student accommodation and academic facilities. It is estimated the whole masterplan will deliver over 1,500 new jobs and bring £281m into Brighton & Hove’s economy over the next ten years.

GRAHAM Construction will build the seven-storey concrete-framed workspace building, which will target a BREEAM Excellent rating. Geared towards small businesses and start-ups, the building will provide a variety of flexible workspaces, as well as prototyping facilities, events spaces and a landscaped roof garden. It is expected to complete by the end of 2019. The building will be part-funded by Coast to Capital a Local Enterprise Partnership.

Sarah Chitty, Development Manager at U+I, said: “We are excited to be underway with the construction of Preston Barracks, delivering a project that will breathe new life into a derelict site, and will support the economy, academic life and growth of Brighton. We’re proud to be working with GRAHAM on the first phase of the project. Their commitment to supporting local communities and economies is closely aligned to our own vision to create long lasting benefits for the places in which we work. This building will provide much needed flexible office space for growing businesses and start-ups that will ultimately boost the business economy of the city.”

Rob Joyce, Development Director at GRAHAM Construction, said: “Our main objective is to create a high-quality commercial building that will attract enterprising, high-growth companies to the area. We will work closely with U+I and the project team to ensure that it provides a range of functioning spaces that are tailored to the needs of the individuals using it, while fostering entrepreneurship and excellence in innovation.”